Authentic Tiroler Knödel: A Taste of Austrian Cuisine

Ingredients

  • 250g of stale bread or bread rolls
  • 200ml of milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 medium onion
  • 2 tablespoons of butter
  • 100g of speck or bacon
  • 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon of salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon of nutmeg
  • Plain flour, as needed
  • Beef or vegetable broth, for serving

Steps and instructions

  1. Cut the stale bread into small cubes and place in a large bowl.
  2. Warm the milk in a small saucepan or in the microwave until it is hot but not boiling. Pour the warm milk over the bread cubes and let them soak for about 10 minutes.
  3. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs slightly. Pour the beaten eggs over the soaked bread and mix well.
  4. Peel and finely chop the onion. In a skillet, melt the butter and cook the chopped onion until it is translucent and soft.
  5. Chop the speck or bacon into small pieces and add to the skillet with the onions. Cook until the speck or bacon is crispy.
  6. Add the onion and speck mixture to the bread and egg mixture. Mix well.
  7. Add the chopped fresh parsley, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg to the mixture and mix until all ingredients are well combined.
  8. Sprinkle some flour over your hands and form the mixture into small balls or dumplings. If the mixture is too sticky, add a bit more flour.
  9. Boil the dumplings in a large pot of salted water or beef or vegetable broth for 15-20 minutes, or until they are firm and cooked through.
  10. Drain the dumplings and serve hot, ideally in a bowl of the broth used for cooking.

Tools for making

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of bread, such as rye bread or whole wheat bread, for a variation in flavor.
  • Replace the speck or bacon with diced ham or cooked sausage for a different meat option.
  • Add grated cheese, such as cheddar or Swiss, to the dumpling mixture for a cheesy twist.
  • Include additional herbs and spices, like thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to enhance the flavor.
  • For a vegetarian option, omit the speck or bacon and add sautéed mushrooms or diced vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the mixture.
  • Experiment with different types of broth for cooking the dumplings, such as chicken or mushroom broth, to add extra depth of flavor.
  • Try coating the dumplings in breadcrumbs before boiling them for a crispy crust.
  • For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread and substitute the plain flour with a gluten-free flour blend.

Recipe overview

If you're craving a taste of Austria, this recipe for Tiroler Knödel is perfect for you. Originating from the Tyrol region of Austria, this traditional dish features hearty bread dumplings, speck or bacon, and aromatic seasonings. The dumplings are boiled to perfection and typically served in a delicious broth. This recipe is a wonderful way to use up leftover bread and it's also a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Mastering this recipe will allow you to bring a piece of Austrian cuisine right into your kitchen. You'll love the comforting, savory flavors and the satisfying texture of the dumplings. Happy cooking!

Common questions

  1. Can I use fresh bread instead of stale bread? No, stale bread is preferred for this recipe as it holds up better and absorbs the liquid without becoming mushy. Fresh bread may result in a softer and less textured dumpling.
  2. Can I use a different type of meat instead of speck or bacon? Yes, you can use other types of cured or smoked meat such as ham or prosciutto as a substitute for speck or bacon. Just make sure to chop it into small pieces before cooking.
  3. Can I freeze the dumplings? Yes, you can freeze the dumplings before cooking them. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until firm. Then transfer them to a ziplock bag or airtight container. Cook them from frozen when ready, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
  4. What can I serve with Tiroler Knödel? Tiroler Knödel is often served with a hearty gravy or sauce, such as mushroom or onion gravy. It is also commonly served with sauerkraut or a side salad for a balanced meal.
  5. Can I make the dumplings vegetarian? Yes, you can omit the speck or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to make the dumplings vegetarian. You can also add some sautéed mushrooms or other vegetables for added flavor.

Serving dishes and utensils

  • Large bowl - Used for soaking the bread cubes and mixing the ingredients together.
  • Small saucepan - Used for warming the milk.
  • Skillet - Used for cooking the onions and speck/bacon.
  • Slotted spoon - Used for removing the dumplings from the boiling water or broth.
  • Large pot - Used for boiling the dumplings.

Origin stories

Tiroler Knödel, or Tyrolean dumplings, are a beloved staple in Austrian cuisine, particularly in the region of Tyrol. The dish reflects the food philosophy of the region, which is based on simplicity, heartiness, and the use of local ingredients. In the past, when food was often scarce and precious, Tyroleans made use of every crumb. They transformed stale bread, which would otherwise be wasted, into these delicious dumplings. The addition of local products like milk and speck - a Tyrolean smoked ham - adds a unique touch to this dish. Tiroler Knödel is not just a dish; it's a testament to Tyrolean resourcefulness and love for their land.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.